Since launching Vision 2030 – the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s blueprint for a bright future – the authorities have executed more than 300 people, including children and peaceful protesters.
But there have also been attempts at reform, with women being allowed to drive and participate in elections for the first time. A commitment to a transformed society, open to the international community and international business, is at the heart of Vision 2030.
There is hype and hope in equal measure, but what does the does the future according to Vision 2030 include, and what does it leave out? Do these reforms mean real change is coming or will torture and beheadings continue? Will Saudi Arabia execute 2030 people by the year 2030, as current rates predict?
Here, we take a closer look at the human rights situation in Saudi Arabia in light of Vision 2030, and attempt to answer these questions.